Colorado College completed its Spring Break trip to Southern California with a 6-3 loss to undefeated Salisbury University.

The Tigers started the match by taking two of three doubles points in matches hard-fought matches that were decided by one service break.

Jordan Evans and Britt Swenson combined for a 9-7 victory at No. 1 doubles, while Tori Marsh and Deanna Thirkell prevailed by an 8-6 score at No. 3

“It was very encouraging to start the match ahead having won two of the three doubles points,” head coach Perry Wright said. “In particular, I was impressed with how aggressive and intense Tori got in the No. 3 doubles match.”

Unfortunately, the momentum didn't carry through the singles matches.

Swenson prevailed for the second day in a row by claiming a 6-0, 6-3 decision at No. 3 singles, but the SeaGulls won the other five matches in straight sets.

Despite falling 6-4, 6-2, Evans played a strong match at No. 1 singles, and Natalie Donnelly nearly extended her match at No. 4 to three sets before losing 6-0, 7-5.

“It seems that Britt has got her groove back and is playing with more focus and confidence,” Wright said. “Jordan, who played the same No. 1 player last year, had a much better match because she was so much more mentally composed. Although she wasn't able to come away with the win, she certainly demonstrated that her mental game has come a long way.”

The experience of playing four regionally-ranked opponents should serve the Tigers well as they prepare for the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference tournament.

“I was very proud of how we played against Salisbury,” Wright said. “All in all, the trip was good and we ended on a good note because we felt good about how we competed.  The unfortunate reality of our situation is that that all of the teams we played were not more talented than us, but they were mentally tough.

“They were sharp, and it is clear that their mental toughness is the result of playing lots and lots of matches year round.  We are certainly at a disadvantage that we don't have a non-traditional season.”

The Tigers have an exhibition match against the University of Denver club team on Mach 27 and then travel to CSU-Pueblo for a re-match with the Thunderwolves on March 30.